Memento Mori: Embracing the Limited Length of Life
In a world that often seems as serious as a tightrope walk over a pool of steaming cat urine, let's take a moment to scratch our chins about the idea of "Memento Mori." These two Latin words, which translate to "Remember that you will die," might sound utterly depressing, but they're worth a moment of your time.
A Stroll Through History
Picture this: In ancient Rome, victorious generals were parading through the streets, basking in their glory. But lurking nearby was a servant with a message. They'd lean in and whisper, "Hey, superstar, remember you're just a mere mortal." Talk about a reality check in the middle of your open-top chariot parade.
Medieval Europe joined this hilarious circus by incorporating skulls, hourglasses, and other morbid symbols into religious art. What better way to lighten up a trip to church than with a reminder of life's fleeting moments?
Philosophy That Raises A Smerk
Now, let's get philosophical. Memento Mori isn't really about doom and gloom; it's more like a cosmic punchline. Think about it: If life is a sitcom, death is the punchline we all share (Think Del Boy and the chandelier). Philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius were basically ancient stand-up comedians, pondering life's absurdities and teaching us to find humour in our mortality.
Seneca, in his comical essay "On the Shortness of Life," essentially said, "We've got time, but we're terrible at using it!" He had a point - we often squander our time worrying about life's minutiae instead of savouring the good stuff. Or worse still, watching a stranger on Instagram power wash his driveway.
But What About Modern Life?
Fast forward to today's whirlwind world, where deadlines and schedules make us feel like a one-armed drunk juggling pineapple. Memento Mori is our cue to step back, loosen our cravats, and have a good laugh at life's quirks.
Prioritising Relationships: Think about the final Rocky movie ‘Rocky Balboa‘. Memento Mori reminds us life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but it's time to write a heartwarming script in our own lives before the final bell.
Living Mindfully: We’re so busy typing out our life stories that we forget to read the novel. Memento Mori is a nudge to put down the keyboard and enjoy the narrative as it unfolds.
Setting Authentic Goals: Instead of chasing after material goals like a Hungry, Hungry Hippo on Prozac, let's aim for goals that make our hearts sing. Just remember, you manifest the thought that people care what car you drive.
Cultivating Gratitude: Picture your remaining days as a book that reads like a comedy script, filled with laughter, mishaps, and heartfelt thanks for the journey.
In Conclusion: Get Your Finger Out Of Your Backside And Enjoy The Show
Memento Mori isn't all doom and gloom; it's a kick up the arse and reminder that life is a journey filled with laughter, mishaps, and unforgettable moments. So, embrace your mortality and live each day as if it were your last because one day it will be.